Parkdale High School principal dies unexpectedly

RIVERDALE, Md. - Students and staff at Parkdale High School in Prince George’s County are mourning the death of their principal.

Prince George’s County Public Schools said Tanya Washington died unexpectedly over the weekend.

Washington spent 19 years working for the Prince George's County's school system. She had been the principal at Parkdale High School since 2013. Prior to that, she served as an assistant principal at two schools and also worked as a science teacher.

“I am shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of beloved Parkdale High School principal Tanya Washington.

“Ms. Washington was dedicated to Parkdale students and staff. In her 19 years with Prince George’s County Public Schools, she gave countless hours and immeasurable energy towards a vision of excellence for all students. Ms. Washington was an outstanding administrator, caring colleague and friend. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

“Ms. Washington joined Prince George’s County Public Schools in 1997 as a teacher at William Wirt Middle School. She later taught science at Charles H. Flowers High School. She served as assistant principal at Oxon Hill Middle School and Largo High School before moving to Parkdale High School as principal in 2013.

“Starting Monday, a team of school psychologists, counselors and pupil personnel workers will be at Parkdale to provide counseling and support for students and staff as long as necessary.

“On behalf of the entire Prince George’s County Public Schools community, I extend thoughts and prayers of comfort to Ms. Washington’s loved ones and the Parkdale High School community.”